Volcanic ash enters surrounding airspace as aviation authorities maintain highest-level red alert over Europe’s tallest active volcano
CATANIA: Authorities suspended arriving flights at Catania airport in eastern Sicily until 1500 GMT on Monday after volcanic ash from a fresh eruption of Mount Etna drifted into surrounding airspace, disrupting operations at one of Italy’s busiest airports.
Airport operator SAC announced the temporary suspension as volcanic activity continued on Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanoes.
The volcano dominates Sicily’s eastern coastline and regularly affects aviation around Catania, the island’s principal airport and Italy’s fifth busiest in terms of passenger traffic.
SAC advised passengers to check their flight status directly with airlines before travelling to the airport because the eruption was significantly affecting scheduled operations.
Authorities Monitor Changing Conditions
Meanwhile, the airport operator said authorities were continuously monitoring volcanic activity and weather conditions. Officials will issue further operational updates depending on changes in ash emissions and atmospheric conditions.
Mount Etna has experienced repeated eruptive activity, periodically forcing aviation authorities to restrict flights because volcanic ash can pose serious risks to aircraft engines and navigation systems.
The latest disruption comes as Etna continues producing lava and volcanic material from multiple active vents.
Lava Flows Continue From Active Vents
Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology said the latest eruptive phase was continuing from vents situated at elevations of approximately 2,750 metres and 2,360 metres.
According to the institute, the active vents were feeding several lava flows and creating extensive lava fields across parts of the volcano.
Furthermore, the institute maintained its Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation at red, the highest aviation alert level.
The designation signals continuing hazards to aircraft from volcanic ash emissions and allows aviation authorities to impose restrictions when necessary.
Consequently, passengers travelling through Catania could face further delays or cancellations if Etna continues releasing ash into airspace surrounding the airport.
